The
East Leeds History & Archaeology Society celebrated its 10th anniversary
with an Open Day held in the East Leeds Heritage Centre, based in Cross
Gates Library, on Saturday 2nd February.
The society's photographic archive of local scenes was available to view
along with old maps of the area and a selection of the publications produced
by the society over the years. Much interest was shown in the photographic
archive with local people delighted to be able to find views of their
own homes in former years. In fact some were so interested they took copies
of the photos for their own use. Other people had come specifically to
find particular information about the area, and members of the society
were only too happy to help search the archives to come up with the answers.
The many displays attracted a lot of attention, especially the new display
"Growing Up in the 50's and 60's", with artefacts loaned from
the Leeds Museum Discovery Centre.
At 2.00pm, society president David Owens gave a short talk about the history
of East Leeds, the current work of the society, and what had prompted
the founders to set up the society. Judging by the very favourable response
to the talk and the Open Day, the society has succeeded in its aim of
bringing local history to the people and making information about our
heritage available to all. As one visitor said it was 'great to discover
that such a valuable resource was right on their doorstep'. Children particularly
enjoyed delving through the old photographs of Cross Gates. Indeed one
youngster was able to find information to help him with a current school
project.
Light refreshments were enjoyed and many visitors left with a selection
of the society's publications, promising to take advantage of the forthcoming
meetings and local history courses on offer.
President David Owens said he was delighted with the success of the day,
and the amount of interest shown by local people. He was particularly
pleased the event had made so many people aware of the work of the society
and what it has to offer within the community.